5 Facts to Remember Before Celebrating this New Year’s Eve

An average of 118 motorists are killed every New Year’s Day, according to statistics compiled by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety. Over a five-year period measured by the organization, 54 percent of January 1 deaths were related to drunk driving. Therefore, on New Year’s Eve and New Year’s Day – as with all days of the year – awareness of alcohol impaired driving and its effects should be taken seriously. Here are some eye-opening facts and statistics from MADD and the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety to think about before getting behind the wheel:

The national legal limit for a legal adult BAC is 0.08%. The amount of alcohol required to reach 0.08% differs according to how fast you drink, your weight, your gender, and how much food you have in your stomach. Because of these variables, the safest choice is always not to drink and drive.

Drunk driving accidents are more likely to occur in the evenings between the hours of 9 p.m. and 6 a.m. The majority of these accidents result in fatalities.

Almost 16,000 people are killed each year and one person is hurt every other minute in an alcohol related accident.

The cost of DUIs and DUI related crashes amounts to almost $132 Billion per year which is approximately $500 per person per year. This money not only comes out of the pockets of offenders and victims but also out of the pockets of every tax payer.

The cost of fines and other expenses related to a DUI charge can be massive. Other consequences can include license suspension and ignition interlocks.

So this New Year’s Eve stay safe. Make alternate plans for transportation or accommodations if you or those around you decide to consume alcoholic beverages. Also, be aware of others on the road. If another driver appears impaired, travel to safe place and report them to your local authorities to prevent an accident or fatality. Have a happy, safe, and joyous New Year!